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Graduate Program

Application and Admission Procedures

Students may apply as classified (degree-seeking) graduate students or as unclassified graduate students. Unclassified students are those who wish to take graduate courses but are not working toward a specific degree. Admission to the Graduate School ordinarily requires a baccalaureate degree and a graade point average of 2.5 (A=4.0). Exceptions can be made for those who have a higher grade point average in either their major or in their course work in the last two years of study. Some graduate programs apply additional criteria and require tests such as the Graduate Record Examination or the Graduate Management Admission Test. International students must submit TOEFL results and receive a score of at least 550 to be admitted to the Graduate School. All applicants must have official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework sent directly to the University.

The program accepts undergraduate and graduate applications in February and October. Entering graduate students are expected to be self-motivated, skilled in fundamental metalworking techniques, capable of technical and conceptual exploration, and able to work independently. The number of graduate students in the program at any one time may range from four to six, based upon quality.

As the graduate student becomes well versed in the multiplicity of techniques available in jewelry, hollowware, and sculpture, greater freedom is gained in self-expression and individual attainment. Fundamental to the MFA degree is an awareness of the historical past in Jewelry and Metalsmithing as well as the rich and diverse array of aesthetics which exist in contemporary metalsmithing. Understanding and appreciating the present and the past becomes the foundation that will lead the graduate metal student to contribute into the new millennium. Faculty are sensitive to the need for individual expression and the attainment of excellence throughout the three year program.